Enjoy the perfect summer cruise day on the Waverley with Glasgow and Clyde Coast trips

The world’s last sea-going paddle steamer is returning to Scotland for summer 2024, offering nostalgic days out for all the family, with incredible £1 offers for kids.

The Waverley has already started its summer season departing Glasgow for trips around the Clyde coast, and tips run from now till Sunday, August 25, 2024.

Itineraries around the Clyde Riviera

Versatility is the name of the game with the Waverley trips, where passengers can embark at any one of the 18 ports of call available on a variety of trips.

Whether you want close to Glasgow city centre, or to pick up the ship at Ayr, Largs or Greenock, a magical and memorable trip awaits. You can choose from a range of routes this summer, calling at at seaside towns and destinations evoking memories of magical yesteryear. How about a trip down the water to Rothesay, a swing by Dunoon, Millport, Ardrishaig or Tarbert, or up into Campbeltown, Blairmore or Tighnabruich.

Love an island? Choose a trip to the Isle or Arran, calling at Brodick and Lochranza, or out round Ailsa Craig.

You’d be forgiven for thinking you were on a grand European adventure, taking in the Scottish fjords and the vistas near the Arrochar Alps on trips up and around Loch Goil. For an Instagram ready moment, don’t miss out on the evening sunset cruise ‘doon the watter’.

Not just plain sailing

Talking of serving, the Waverley offers more than just a magical mode of transport … there are full catering facilities on board every trip, with hot and cold snacks, tea and cake, plus a chance to nab a souvenir.

And while the destination may be the end goal, what you see, hear and feel on the journey is every bit as glorious. Walk the wooden decks past polished brass fittings, listen to the iconic steam whistle and sound of the paddles, and delight as the instantly recognisable funnels on board draw attention wherever you go. Down below decks, take a visit to the engine room, hear the telegraph ring out and watch the engine come to life. Find yourself a comfy seat by a porthole and watch the magnificent paddles power through the waters – it truly is a step back in time and a marvel of engineering.

In fact, the Waverley was given the incredibly prestigious National Flagship of the Year award by National Historic Ships UK, not only for the incredible vessel herself, but in recognition of the cruising programme around the UK, which brings the Waverley to more people and more destinations than ever before.

Deals and special offers

With discount prices for pensioners on many sailings  and children aged 5-16 going for just £1 on all Glasgow and Clyde coast summer sailings (under fives are completely free) this is an affordable trip for all the family to enjoy together.

Save the dates – and book today

Keeping with the family friendly theme, there are lots of extra special events this year. Book now for the children’s Pirates, Princesses and Superheroes Day – Sunday 7th July and Friday 26th July.

Make a difference with a special fundraising Evening Cruise ‘Doon the Watter’ for the Submarine Family – Friday 19th July – tickets for this are only available online.

See Cunard’s latest cruise ship Queen Anne berthed at Greenock – Friday 26th July, or join fellow paddle steam enthusiasts at the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (Scottish Branch) Evening Fundraising Cruise – Wednesday 31st July – sailing from Dunoon, Greenock, Kilcreggan and Blairmore.

Cruise Round the Isle of Arran – Sunday 4th August

Special Sailing to mark 50 Years since Waverley was gifted for £1 – Thursday 8th August.

Tickets for all of Waverley’s sailings can be purchased in advanced at waverleyexcursions.co.uk, or by calling 0141 243 2224. Tickets for most sailings are also available to be purchased on board the steamer when you sail.